Hot New Artist: Dent May & His Magnificent Ukulele

on January 27, 2009

I first heard of/saw Dent May back in October during CMJ. It was during the Paw Tracks (Animal Collective’s label) showcase at Le Poisson Rouge. By the time Dent May came on I had listened to about four band’s worth of experimental, nosiy static, and was starting to lose steam quickly. All of a sudden, I heard a rambling band of string instruments, an infectious melody, and what’s that? Yes, by God, yes, a ukulele!! Dent May was an extremely welcome relief in the midst of all that nonsensical noise.

His debut album, “The Good Feeling Music of Dent May & His Magnificent Ukulele” coming out on February 3rd, is a gem full of both sincere ukulele ditties and ever-so-slightly tongue in cheek tracks. The music works perfectly on the album. In some senses, it’s incredibly cheesy: Dent May’s deep, smooth voice and early Beatles-esque chord progressions remind me of the band that plays in the background scenes during high school dances in 1950s movies. In a good way. He sings so sincerely, too. At the same time, he takes himself just not-seriously enough. For instance, when he croons on “I’m An Alcoholic,” “I’m over being sober. I’m an alcoholic. I think I’ll get drunk tonight,” you know that you’re supposed to have fun with this album.

A lot of blogs have put up the tracks “You Can’t Force A Dance Party” and “Meet Me In The Garden.” Here’s two new ones for you to check out. And make sure to check out the whole album on February 3rd!